Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that perfectly combines flavors and textures. This easy-to-make recipe is great for weeknight dinners or special occasions, and it impresses everyone at the table. The creamy garlic butter sauce elevates tender shrimp and fettuccine to a whole new level, making it a must-try for seafood lovers.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Pasta
• For the Sauce
• For Cooking
• How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
• Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine
• Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
• Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
• Step 4: Combine Ingredients
• Step 5: Mix in Fettuccine
• Step 6: Serve with Garnish
• Step 7: Enjoy!
• How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
• Pair with Fresh Salad
• Add Garlic Bread
• Serve with Wine
• How to Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
• Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
• Reheating Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use frozen shrimp for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?
• What can I substitute for fettuccine?
• How do I customize Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?
• Is Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta healthy?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish can be ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and parmesan creates a rich, savory sauce that pairs wonderfully with shrimp.
• Versatile Ingredient: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasonings to your taste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s date night or a family gathering, Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is sure to impress your guests.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein from the shrimp and wholesome ingredients, this pasta dish is a healthier dinner choice.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Cooking spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing garlic and cooking shrimp quickly while retaining moisture.
• Colander: Helps drain pasta effectively without losing any strands.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta:

For the Pasta

• 12 oz Fettuccine

For the Sauce

• 1 lb Shrimp
• 4 cloves Garlic
• ½ cup Parmesan Cheese
• 4 tbsp Butter
• ¼ cup Juice of Lemon (Juice from 1/4 of Lemon)
• ¼ cup Lemon Zest (Zest from 1/4 of Lemon)

For Cooking

• 2 tbsp Cooking Oil
• Sea Salt
• Black Pepper

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine until al dente. Drain well and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a skillet, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Melt butter in the same skillet. Add shrimp and stir occasionally until they turn opaque white with some pink color, about 4-6 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add lemon juice, lemon zest, parmesan cheese, sea salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir until combined and the parmesan has melted into a smooth sauce.

Step 5: Mix in Fettuccine

Transfer the cooked fettuccine into the skillet with shrimp. Toss gently until everything is evenly distributed in the sauce.

Step 6: Serve with Garnish

Garnish your dish with fresh parsley before serving for an extra pop of color.

Step 7: Enjoy!

Dig in and savor every bite of your homemade Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta!

This meal serves approximately 5 people, making it ideal for sharing with family or friends. Enjoy its delightful flavors any night of the week!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing, croutons, and parmesan cheese complements the rich flavors of the pasta.
• Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese balances the buttery shrimp.

Add Garlic Bread

• Classic Garlic Bread: Toasted bread spread with garlic butter makes for a perfect side to soak up any leftover sauce.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: Similar to classic garlic bread but topped with mozzarella for a gooey addition to your meal.

Serve with Wine

• Chardonnay: This white wine pairs well with seafood and enhances the flavors of the garlic butter sauce.
• Pinot Grigio: A light and crisp option that refreshes the palate between bites.

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How to Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

To achieve the best results with your Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp not only tastes better but also has a firmer texture compared to frozen options.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cooking fettuccine al dente ensures it holds up well when mixed with the sauce.
• Melt Butter Gently: Avoid burning the butter by melting it on low heat before adding shrimp and garlic.
• Balance Flavors: Adjust lemon juice and zest according to taste for a vibrant flavor without overwhelming the dish.
• Toss Thoroughly: Make sure all pasta is coated evenly with the garlic butter sauce for consistent flavor in every bite.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Enhance your meal further by pairing it with these delicious side dishes.

1. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the pasta.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized provides sweetness to balance savory flavors.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and a tangy contrast to the creamy pasta dish.
4. Caprese Salad: Slices of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing side salad.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter pairs wonderfully with shrimp dishes for a summer vibe.
6. Rice Pilaf: A fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs makes for a hearty accompaniment alongside your pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s taste and texture.

• Skipping the salt in the pasta water: Not salting your pasta water means your fettuccine will lack flavor. Always add a generous amount of salt to enhance the pasta taste.
• Overcooking the shrimp: Cooking shrimp too long can make them tough and rubbery. Aim for 4-6 minutes until they are opaque and just cooked through.
• Neglecting to zest the lemon: Lemon zest adds a unique brightness to the dish. Make sure to zest before juicing for maximum flavor.
• Using pre-grated Parmesan cheese: Pre-grated cheese can contain fillers that alter the texture. Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and enhances the dish’s taste.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Under-seasoning can lead to bland pasta. Always taste and adjust with salt and pepper for perfect flavor.
• Forgetting garnishes: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also freshness. Don’t skip this step for a delightful finish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes, adding a splash of water if needed.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, adding a bit of butter or oil to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, here are some answers that might help!

Can I use frozen shrimp for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?

Yes, frozen shrimp work well! Just thaw them before cooking for even results.

What can I substitute for fettuccine?

You can use any pasta shape you like, such as linguine or spaghetti, for this dish.

How do I customize Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrients and flavor.

Is Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta healthy?

This recipe can be part of a balanced diet. Use whole grain pasta and control portion sizes for healthier options.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with rich flavors. Its versatility means you can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or sides. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a comforting meal that’s sure to impress!